The Class AAA Richmond Braves, the organization's highest-level minor-league affiliate, could play in Gwinnett as soon as 2009. The Braves' three-year contract at the Richmond stadium, known as The Diamond, runs through the 2010 season, but the Braves have the option to pull out after the 2008 season.

Many details of the move were not known Monday, as Braves and Gwinnett County officials refused to talk about the relocation. A stadium for the Richmond Braves could be built on land the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners is expected to approve today for purchasing. The commission agenda lists a $5 million "purchase and sale agreement" of about 12 acres owned by Brand Properties.

Brand Morgan, Brand Properties' owner, declined to comment on the sale or what the land will be used for, but he did say he plans to attend a news conference today at Gwinnett Center.

The location of for the new ballpark will be along Buford Drive, southeast of I-85 and near the Mall of Georgia.